
Mineral / Extraterrestrial Rock
Pallasite Meteorite
Pallasite (Iron-Nickel Matrix with Olivine/Peridot inclusions)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 6.5-7 (olivine) and 4-5 (metal); Color: Dark brown/black fusion crust with amber-yellow to green crystals; Luster: Vitreous crystals in metallic matrix; Structure: Stony-iron stony matrix; Specific Gravity: Approx. 4.8 - 7.5
- Hardness
- 6
- Luster
- Vitreous crystals in metallic matrix
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Physical properties
Hardness: 6.5-7 (olivine) and 4-5 (metal); Color: Dark brown/black fusion crust with amber-yellow to green crystals; Luster: Vitreous crystals in metallic matrix; Structure: Stony-iron stony matrix; Specific Gravity: Approx. 4.8 - 7.5
Formation & geological history
Formed at the core-mantle boundary of differentiated asteroids approximately 4.5 billion years ago. They are believed to represent only 1% of all known meteorites.
Uses & applications
Extremely high value for scientific research into the early solar system, high-end jewelry (slices), and luxury mineral collecting.
Geological facts
Pallasites are often called the 'most beautiful' meteorites. Famous pallasites include the Brenham and Esquel specimens. The crystals inside are gem-quality peridot (olivine) from space.
Field identification & locations
Identify by the presence of translucent yellow/green olivine crystals embedded in a highly magnetic nickel-iron matrix. In the field, look for a dark fusion crust and high density for its size. Common locations include strewn fields like Brenham, Kansas or the Magadan region, Russia.
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